How to Choose the Right RAM® Arm Length for Your Setup
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Time to read 5 min
The right RAM® arm length depends on where the base is installed, how far the device needs to reach and how much vibration the setup will experience. For most phone mounts, a short or standard RAM® arm is enough. For tablets, trucks, boats, workstations or hard-to-reach mounting points, a longer arm may be useful, but it should be chosen carefully.
RAM® Mounts are modular, which means the arm is the adjustable link between the base and the device holder. Choosing the wrong arm length can make a mount harder to use, less stable or more likely to move during travel.
Why RAM® arm length matters
The arm controls reach, angle and device position. A shorter arm usually creates a more compact and stable setup. A longer arm gives more reach but can increase movement, especially in vehicles, boats, 4WDs and industrial settings.
A good RAM® arm should:
- position the device where it is easy to see
- avoid blocking controls or visibility
- reduce vibration where possible
- suit the weight of the device
- match the base and holder ball size
- provide enough adjustment without overextending the setup
Recommended RAM® arm products
| Recommended Product | SKU | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| RAM® Short Double Socket Arm for B Size 1" Balls | RAM-B-201U-A | Compact phone, GPS and low-vibration setups |
| RAM® Double Socket Arm for B Size 1" Balls | RAM-B-201U | Standard phone, GPS and general vehicle setups |
| RAM® Long Socket Arm for B Size 1" Ball | RAM-B-201U-C | Extra reach for dashboards, boats and workstations |
| RAM® Composite Short Double Socket Arm for 1" Balls | RAP-B-201U-A | Lightweight compact setups |
| RAM® Double Socket Arm for 1" Balls | RAP-B-201U | Lightweight adjustable setups |
Quick comparison: short vs standard vs long RAM® arms
| RAM® Arm Length | Best For | Main Benefit | Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Arm | Phones, GPS units, compact vehicle setups | Better stability and less movement | Less reach |
| Standard Arm | Most phone and light tablet setups | Balanced reach and stability | May still be too long for tight spaces |
| Long Arm | Boats, trucks, benches and hard-to-reach mounting points | Greater positioning flexibility | More movement in high-vibration areas |
When to choose a short RAM® arm
Choose a short RAM® arm when the mounting base is already close to the ideal device position. This is often the best option for phones, GPS units, motorbikes and compact vehicle cabins.
A short arm is useful when:
- you want less movement
- you are mounting a smaller device
- the base is close to the driver or operator
- space is limited
- the setup is used in rough conditions
For example, a delivery driver using a RAM® X-Grip® phone holder with a suction cup base may prefer the RAM-B-201U-A because it keeps the phone close to the mounting point.
When to choose a standard RAM® arm
A standard RAM® arm is the most versatile choice for many users. It provides enough reach for most vehicle, desk and light commercial setups without becoming too extended.
A standard arm is a good fit for:
- phone mounts in cars and utes
- GPS mounts
- shared work vehicles
- general-purpose setups
- most B Size RAM® systems
The RAM-B-201U is a strong starting point if you are not sure whether you need short or long reach.
When to choose a long RAM® arm
A long RAM® arm is helpful when the mounting base is farther away from where the device needs to sit. This can be useful in trucks, boats, dashboards with limited mounting points, dispatch benches and workstations.
Choose a long arm when:
- the base cannot be installed close to the user
- you need to position the device around an obstacle
- visibility is difficult from a standard arm
- the setup is on a bench, console or marine dash
The RAM-B-201U-C provides extra reach, but it should be used carefully in high-vibration environments.
Best RAM® arm length by use case
| Use Case | Recommended Arm | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery driver phone mount | RAM-B-201U-A or RAM-B-201U | Compact and stable for daily driving |
| Standard car phone mount | RAM-B-201U | Balanced reach and adjustability |
| Motorbike phone or GPS mount | RAM-B-201U-A | Helps reduce movement |
| Boat GPS or fish finder setup | RAM-B-201U or RAM-B-201U-C | Depends on dash layout and required reach |
| Warehouse workstation | RAM-B-201U or RAM-B-201U-C | Positions device around bench space |
| Tablet or rugged device setup | Consider C size components | Larger devices may need stronger parts |
How arm length affects vibration
As a general rule, the longer the arm, the more movement the device may experience. This does not mean long arms are bad, but they need to be used in the right situation.
To reduce vibration:
- use the shortest arm that still works
- mount close to a strong surface
- avoid unnecessary extensions
- match the arm to the device weight
- use stronger components for heavier devices
How to choose the right arm in three steps
1. Choose your mounting base first
The base location determines how much reach you need. A base mounted close to the driver may only need a short arm. A base mounted lower on the console may need a standard or long arm.
2. Check your device size and weight
Phones and small GPS units are usually easier to support than tablets and rugged devices. Larger devices may need stronger components rather than simply a longer arm.
3. Test your viewing position
The screen should be visible without blocking the road, controls or workflow area. If the arm needs to stretch too far, consider moving the base instead of choosing a much longer arm.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a long arm when a short arm would be more stable
- Using B Size components for a device that needs stronger support
- Mounting the base too far away from the user
- Blocking air vents, controls or displays
- Forgetting to check charging cable routing
Recommended Mounts Australia categories to explore
Final recommendation
For most phone and GPS setups, start with a short or standard RAM® arm. Choose a long arm only when you genuinely need extra reach. For larger tablets, rugged devices or high-vibration environments, consider whether a stronger ball size and more stable base are needed.
FAQs
What RAM® arm length should I choose?
Choose the shortest RAM® arm that positions the device where you need it. Shorter arms are usually more stable, while longer arms provide more reach.
Is a long RAM® arm less stable?
A long RAM® arm can create more movement because the device sits farther from the mounting point. It is best used when extra reach is necessary.
What is the best RAM® arm for phone mounts?
For many phone mounts, the RAM-B-201U standard arm or RAM-B-201U-A short arm is a practical choice.
What RAM® arm is best for motorbikes?
A short RAM® arm is often best for motorbikes because it helps reduce movement and keeps the device close to the mounting point.
Explore Mounts Australia’s RAM® arms and components or contact our team for help choosing the right arm length for your device, vehicle or workstation.